We have just tested both the Canon and Nikon versions of the Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens, announced on February 8, 2011.

First we’ll analyze the lens results when mounted on the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III and on the Nikon D3x. Then we’ll measure the progress in terms of image quality by comparing the 2011 results with the earlier non-stabilized version, the Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG Macro, announced in June 2004.

Finally, we’ll see how this lens stacks up against other macro lenses already tested, giving us an opportunity to revisit the overview of 100mm macros for full-frame cameras that we recently published on this site.

The Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM put through the DxOMark mill

With a DxOMark Score of 23 for the Nikon mount and 24 for the Canon, the two 105mm macros have, for all purposes, identical image quality. (Note : With a T-stop of 3.2 on the Nikon and 3 on the Canon, there is a difference of about 0.19EV at full aperture. The Canon version gains almost 1/3EV over the Nikon version, making the Canon slightly brighter at f/2.8.)

Strong points

Weak points

Excellent sharpness

Strong vignetting, with a loss of 1.5EV in the last 1/3 of the field at f/2.8, and a loss of 0.7EV in the last 1/3 of the field at f/4.

Globally, these lenses provide the same image quality - and in fact, the non-stabilized version controls vignetting better. So at first glance, it may seem that a jump in price of $300 is unjustified, but realistically, stabilization is a genuinely useful feature for a macro lens of this kind. Our advice, then, is to go for the stabilized version (if your budget permits).

Very close DxOMark scores — only 1 point (Canon) and 2 points (Nikon) separate these two lenses

The stabilized version is ever-so-slightly brighter

Stronger vignetting (1.5 EV to f/2.8) for the stabilized version

Verdict: After all this time, we frankly hoped for greater advances in image quality. This said, we acknowledge that there’s been at least a little improvement in sharpness and transmittion.

One other good point is that stabilization hasn’t added any more weight to the lens.

Note that the prices for professional-quality Sigma lenses have risen significantly. By raising its prices, however, Sigma has lost some of its advantage over Nikon and Canon in terms of quality-to-price ratio.

To provide photographers with a broader perspective about mobiles, lenses and cameras, here are links to articles, reviews, and analyses of photographic equipment produced by DxOMark, renown websites, magazines or blogs.

Comments

Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Works for Canon 550D ?

Hi DxoMark...

I am a big fan of ur site, with recent visits gave me abundant knowledge over lenses and caners. I have decided to go for this lens but disappointed to see that Canon 550 seems to be non compatible. Can you double confirm is it compatible or not ? I need this lens for my cam, else i have to change my cam !!!

Please advice me any alternative choice. No compromise on picture sharpness. It should be the best, its my concern.